Why Olive Oil Isn’t Just Cooking Oil (And Never Was)

When you think of olive oil, chances are your mind goes straight to the kitchen — maybe drizzled over a fresh salad, blended into a warm curry, or used to temper spices in a chutney.

But what if we told you this pantry staple isn’t just for cooking? Olive oil has quietly made its way into beauty routines, home remedies, and even baby care. This multitasking marvel proves time and again that it’s far more than a one-trick pony. Here are 9 surprisingly practical (and brilliant) uses for olive oil that prove it was never just a cooking oil.

Your Skin’s New Best Friend

Let’s start simple. Olive oil is a deeply moisturising emollient that sinks into dry skin and delivers a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. After a shower, smooth it over damp skin to lock in moisture. It’s like giving your skin a drink of water, minus the irritation that sometimes comes with some conventional lotions.

A Natural Hair Nourisher

Tired of dry ends or frizz that just won’t quit? Warm a little olive oil in your palms and run it through your hair from mid-length to ends. Leave it on for 20 minutes (or overnight if you feel extra), then rinse. It helps seal moisture, adds shine, and may even soothe a dry scalp.

Bring Back the Glow to Wood Furniture

A scuffed dining table or a dull coffee table doesn’t need harsh chemical treatments. Olive oil, mixed with a splash of lemon juice, works as a natural wood conditioner. Gently rubbing it onto wooden surfaces with a soft cloth helps revive the finish and restore a subtle sheen, giving furniture that freshly polished look without relying on synthetic products.

Quietly Helps Around the House

Squeaky hinges and rust-prone tools can be cared for without harsh sprays. Olive oil acts as a natural lubricant and rust deterrent. Just a small dab on garden shears, door hinges, or hand tools keeps them operating smoothly and looking well-maintained.

Gentle Care for Little Ones

One of the most appreciated uses of olive oil by mothers is soothing diaper rash. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a gentle solution for soothing redness and irritation on a baby’s sensitive skin. Plus, it creates a breathable barrier to keep moisture out and comfort in.

Remove Stubborn Makeup

Running low on remover? Olive oil breaks down makeup like a pro. Dab a little on a cotton round and wipe gently over your face. It dissolves even stubborn products and leaves skin feeling hydrated, not stripped.

A Massage Essential

Olive oil glides like a dream and has just enough grip to double as a perfect massage oil. It helps ease muscle tension, adds lasting hydration to the skin, and brings a touch of everyday luxury to any self-care routine.

Caring for Your Skin Through Changes

Stretch marks are a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give them some extra love. Olive oil helps boost skin elasticity and hydration, making it a great choice during pregnancy, weight changes, or any other time your skin needs a little TLC.

A Swish for a Healthier Smile

Oil pulling — an ancient Ayurvedic practice — involves swishing olive oil in your mouth for a few minutes to help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath. It’s a small step that can support your oral routine in a big way.

What We’ve Learned

Olive oil isn’t just versatile — it’s timeless. From caring for your skin and hair to enhancing your health and home, this simple bottle of golden goodness has you covered. Maybe it’s time to move it from your pantry to your vanity shelf as well.

And if you’re looking for a trusted bottle of olive oil, Figaro could be just what you need. Staying true to its promise since 1919, Figaro offers 100% natural extra virgin olive oil, ensuring every drop is as pure as nature intended.

Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil isn’t just celebrated for its exceptional health benefits — it’s also a go-to for a wide range of uses. Its gentle, nourishing properties make it a top choice not just in cooking, but in baby skincare and beyond. Experience the difference yourself.